First case of Vibrio confirmed in Mobile County for 2018

The initial case of Vibrio in 2018 has been reported to the Mobile County Health Department.

The case is currently under investigation by the health department's Infectious Diseases & Outbreak division, according to a news release Thursday morning.

The health department says exposure took place in the Mobile River, and the infection has been identified as Vibrio vulnificus.

Because of patient privacy rights under the federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, no additional identifying information will be made available to the public.

Vibrio bacteria naturally live in certain coastal waters and are present in higher concentrations between May and October when water temperatures are warmer. However the bacteria can be present throughout the year in some areas. While Vibrio bacteria can enter the body through a break in the skin, it can also come from consuming contaminated seafood.